Why Kamala Harris Would Be a Great Cybersecurity President

In a recent conversation with a senior business leader, the topic of the upcoming US presidential elections arose. The question posed to me was whether Kamala Harris would be a cybersecurity, President. My answer from the perspective of a global citizen was an emphatic yes, and here’s why.

A Track Record of Advocacy and Action

Kamala Harris has consistently demonstrated a commitment to cybersecurity, recognising its critical importance to national security and economic stability for the US. As a former Attorney General of California, she oversaw numerous initiatives to combat cybercrime and improve cyber resilience. Her tenure in the Senate further underscored her dedication to this issue, where she supported legislation aimed at enhancing cybersecurity infrastructure and protecting sensitive information.

Understanding the Threat Landscape

The current threat landscape is complex and rapidly evolving, with nation-state actors and organized cybercrime groups posing significant risks to national and international security. Recent events, such as the CrowdStrike outage, have highlighted the vulnerabilities in our digital infrastructure. Cyberattacks like these can have far-reaching implications, disrupting businesses and critical services globally. Kamala Harris's experience and understanding of these issues position her well to address these challenges head-on.

Tackling Nation-State Actors

Nation-state actors have become increasingly bold in their cyber activities, targeting government agencies, critical infrastructure, and private sector organisations. Harris has been vocal about the need for a robust national cybersecurity strategy to deter these adversaries. Her stance on strengthening international alliances to combat cyber threats aligns with the current necessity for a unified global response to cyber aggression.

Addressing Organised Cybercrime

Organised cybercrime groups and actors, such as Conti, have operated with alarming impunity, executing ransomware attacks that cripple essential services. The Conti attack on Ireland’s Health Service Executive during the global pandemic is a stark reminder of the devastating impact these players can have. Harris’s background in law enforcement equips her with the insights needed to disrupt and dismantle these criminal networks. Her approach would likely involve increasing collaboration between public and private sectors, enhancing intelligence-sharing mechanisms, and imposing stricter penalties on cybercriminals.?

Legislative and Policy Initiatives

Kamala Harris has supported numerous legislative efforts to bolster cybersecurity. Her advocacy for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) underscores her commitment to protecting critical infrastructure. Additionally, her support for privacy legislation indicates a balanced approach to safeguarding individual rights while enhancing security measures.

Forward-Thinking Approach

Harris’s forward-thinking approach to technology and cybersecurity is evident in her support for initiatives that foster innovation while ensuring security. She understands that as technology evolves, so too must our strategies to protect against cyber threats. This perspective is crucial in an era where emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing present both opportunities and risks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kamala Harris’s extensive experience, proactive stance on cybersecurity, and commitment to protecting national interests make her an ideal candidate to lead efforts in strengthening the United States’ and indeed the Global cybersecurity posture. Her leadership would bring a much-needed focus on securing our digital future, addressing both immediate threats and long-term challenges. As President, Kamala Harris would undoubtedly prioritise cybersecurity, leveraging her background and expertise to safeguard the world against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats.